8 Fabric Scrap Projects Ideas of 2024 – What to Sew?

Last Updated on December 31, 2023

Fabric Scrap Projects Ideas: If you’re an avid seamstress or even just a casual crafter, chances are you have a stash of fabric scraps lying around. They may be remnants from past projects, too small to create anything substantial but too precious to throw away.

The good news is that those fabric scraps can be transformed into delightful and useful creations.

8 Fabric scrap projects Ideas – What to sew with scraps?

Here, we’re excited to share eight fantastic fabric scrap project ideas that will inspire you to dust off those leftover fabric pieces and start sewing.

From practical items like drink coasters and pencil cases to stylish accessories like bandanas and headscarves, these projects are fun and eco-friendly to make.

So, let’s dive into the world of fabric scrap magic and bring new life to those forgotten textiles!

Project 1: Basic Pillowcase

We’re going to make a basic pillowcase, and you’ll be surprised at how simple and satisfying this project can be.

Materials you’ll need:

Step 1: Measure and Cut

Start by measuring the pillow you want to cover. Add an extra inch to both the width and length for seam allowance. For example, if your pillow is 17 inches, cut a square panel of fabric that’s 18 inches by 18 inches for the front of your pillowcase.

For the back panels, which will have an overlapping open section, cut two rectangles with a width of 18 inches (matching the front panel’s width).

To calculate the height of the rectangles, divide the total width by two and add three inches. This extra length accounts for a double hem on one end and overlap.

Step 2: Sew the Rolled Hem

Fold one of the short edges of each rectangle fabric piece over twice, about half an inch each time, creating a rolled hem. Secure the fold with pins and sew a straight line along the folded edge.

Step 3: Assemble the Pillowcase

Place one of the rectangle panels with the good side facing down on one edge of the front square panel. Ensure the folded hem edge is in the center of the square.

Lay the other rectangle on top of this, the good side facing the good side of the square, with the folded hem in the center as well.

Pin all the edges together, then sew a straight line around the outer edges to secure the pieces together. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of your sewing.

When sewing corners, pivot the fabric by lifting the presser foot, turning the fabric, and continuing to sew.

Step 4: Finish the Edges

If your fabric frays easily, consider overlocking or zigzag stitching along the raw edges to prevent fraying.

Step 5: Insert the Pillow

Your pillowcase is now ready! Slide your pillow inside, tuck the excess fabric into the overlapping section, and you have a cute new pillowcase.

The overlapping section provides enough coverage to hide the pillow, creating a neat and polished finish.

And there you have it—a quick and easy way to repurpose fabric scraps into functional and stylish pillowcases. It’s a satisfying project for sewers of all skill levels.

Before we move on to the next project, I want to introduce a way to add a personal touch to your creations: the Cricut Maker 3.

With this machine, you can customize your DIY projects by cutting out designs, patterns, and even branding for your fabric items. It’s a versatile tool that allows you to explore various creative possibilities.

Project 2: Simple Tote Bag

Next up is a project that’s not only practical but also a fantastic way to use up fabric scraps—a simple tote bag.

Materials you’ll need:

Step 1: Measure and Cut

Determine the size of your tote bag. If you have a tote bag you like, you can use it as a template. Add half an inch to the two side edges and the bottom edge for seam allowance.

Add two inches to the top edge for a folded hem. If you’re following along with my measurements, cut two main panels that are 19.5 inches high by 17.5 inches wide.

For the straps, cut two pieces with a length of 41 inches (accounting for seam allowance) and a width of 3 inches.

Step 2: Sew the Straps

Fold each strap in half lengthwise, with the good sides facing each other, and sew down the long edge, leaving the short ends open. Turn the straps right-side out by threading a safety pin through one end, then feed it through the inside of the strap until it comes out the other end.

Step 3: Assemble the Bag

Fold the main panels in half, with the good sides facing each other, and sew down the two side edges and one bottom edge, leaving the top edge open. Trim any excess fabric within the seam allowance and overlock or zigzag the edges to prevent fraying.

Step 4: Create a Boxed Bottom (Optional)

To add a boxed bottom for a roomier tote, fold the bottom corners so that the side seams and bottom seam align. Measure 2.5 inches from the point and mark it. Sew across this line and repeat for the other corner.

Step 5: Attach the Straps

Decide where you want the straps to be placed on the tote bag. I recommend 4.5 inches from each side, but you can adjust your preference. Pin the straps in place, ensuring they aren’t twisted. Sew the straps securely along the top edge of the bag.

Step 6: Hem the Top Edge

Fold the top edge of the bag about half an inch for the first fold, then fold it down one inch for the second fold. Pin it in place and sew a straight line close to the folded edge to create a neat hem.

Your tote bag is now complete and ready to carry your belongings. It’s a versatile and eco-friendly accessory that you can personalize with different fabric scraps and strap lengths.

Project 3: Fun Wall Banners

Let’s move on to a decorative project: creating fun wall banners. This is a great way to add some personality to your living space and use up medium-sized fabric scraps.

Materials you’ll need

Step 1: Measure and Cut

Your banner size can vary depending on your preference, so feel free to customize it. For our example, start with a rectangle that’s 12.5 inches by 19 inches. This will be your base.

Step 2: Sew the Banner

Fold the base fabric in half lengthwise, with the good sides facing each other, and sew along the short and angled bottom edges. Leave the other short edge open. Turn the fabric right-side out and iron it flat. You now have a flag-like shape.

Step 3: Hem the Top Edge

Depending on the thickness of your dowel or rod, fold the top edge to create a sleeve that will accommodate it. For instance, if your dowel is half an inch thick, fold the fabric one inch down and sew a straight line along the folded edge. Ensure that it’s wide enough to slide the dowel through.

Step 4: Add String for Hanging

Cut a length of string for hanging. The length will depend on where you want to hang your banner. Add about six inches to the hanging length for creating a loop to go over the dowel. Thread the string through the sleeve you created in the previous step, and tie the ends together to form a loop.

Step 5: Customize Your Banner

Now comes the fun part—customize your banner! You can add designs, messages, graphics, or even create ruffled sections for a boho look. Use different fabric scraps and sewing techniques to make each banner unique.

Hang your banners on your walls to add a touch of personality and charm to your living space.

Project 4: Cute Scrunchies

This project is a small and stylish one—the scrunchie. It’s perfect for using up tiny fabric scraps and adding a pop of color to your hair or wrist.

Materials you’ll need

Step 1: Measure and Cut

Start by cutting your fabric scrap into a strip. The width will determine the puffiness of your scrunchie. For a larger, puffier scrunchie, cut the strip at 8 inches wide. For a smaller, regular-sized scrunchie, cut it at 6 inches wide. The length of your strip should be three times the circumference of your wrist plus seam allowance (about 1 inch).

Step 2: Sew the Scrunchie

Fold the fabric strip in half lengthwise, with the good sides facing each other, and sew along the long edge to create a tube. Turn the tube right-side out.

Step 3: Prepare the Elastic

Cut a piece of elastic that’s 9 inches long (or your preferred length). Overlap the ends by about half an inch and sew them together securely, creating a loop.

Step 4: Thread the Elastic

Attach a safety pin to one end of the elastic and thread it through the fabric tube, gathering the fabric as you go. Once the elastic has gone all the way through, remove the safety pin and sew the ends of the elastic together to secure it.

Step 5: Finish the Scrunchie

Evenly distribute the fabric around the elastic, covering it completely. Sew the ends of the fabric together to close the scrunchie, making sure to catch all the layers. Trim any excess fabric.

Project 5: Drink Coasters or Reusable Makeup Removers

For this project, you can make either fabric coasters or reusable makeup removers, depending on your needs and the materials you have on hand. It’s a perfect way to use up those extra-small fabric scraps.

Materials you’ll need

For Drink Coasters

Step 1: Create a Template

Start by creating a paper template for the shape of your coasters. You can choose any shape you like, such as square, hexagon, circle, or even unique designs like flowers.

Step 2: Cut the Fabric

Using your paper template, cut out multiple pieces of fabric in the desired shape. Ideally, you’ll want two pieces for each coaster.

Step 3: Assemble the Coasters

Place two fabric pieces together, with the good sides facing outwards. You can mix and match different colors or patterns to your liking.

Step 4: Stitch the Edges

Switch your sewing machine to a zigzag setting and stitch around the edges of the coaster to secure the two fabric pieces together. You can experiment with different thread colors to add a decorative touch.

For Reusable Makeup Removers:

Step 1: Cut Fabric Pieces

If you’re making makeup removers, use natural materials like cotton or leftover bits of toweling. Cut out fabric pieces in your desired shape, making sure to have two pieces for each makeup remover.

Step 2: Assemble the Makeup Removers

Place two fabric pieces together, with the good sides facing outwards, for each makeup remover.

Step 3: Stitch the Edges

Using a zigzag setting or overlocker, stitch around the edges of each makeup remover. You can use different thread colors for a decorative touch.

These simple projects allow you to repurpose fabric scraps into functional and eco-friendly items. Whether you choose to make drink coasters or reusable makeup removers, you’ll find these projects quick and satisfying.

Project 6: Comfy Eye Mask

For this project, you’ll create a comfy eye mask. It’s a bit more involved, but the results are worth it.

Materials you’ll need

Step 1: Measure and Cut Fabric

Measure from the top of your ear to the other top of the ear to determine the width of the eye mask. For the height, measure from the tip of your nose to your mid-forehead and add one inch for seam allowance. Cut out one rectangle of fabric with these dimensions.

Step 2: Prepare Padding

Cut padding material (toweling, flannel, or padding) to match the dimensions of your fabric rectangle.

Step 3: Assemble the Mask

Lay the fabric rectangle down with the good side facing up. Place the padding material on top of it. If you didn’t attach the padding earlier, you can sew it to the fabric using a straight stitch along the edges.

Step 4: Add Elastic

Cut a piece of elastic that matches the width of the mask, allowing it to stretch comfortably. Attach a safety pin to one end of the elastic and thread it through the edge of the mask, securing both ends in place.

Step 5: Stitch and Close

Fold the mask in half, with the good sides facing each other, and sew along the sides, leaving the bottom open. Turn the mask right-side out and sew the bottom edge closed.

Now you have a comfy eye mask that can help you get a restful night’s sleep or block out light during relaxation.

Project 7: Bandana / Headscarves

These bandanas or headscarves are versatile accessories.

Materials you’ll need

Step 1: Measure and Cut

To create a square bandana, measure the circumference of your head until it meets at the back of your neck, then add 12 inches. This measurement will be the diagonal of your square. For a triangular headscarf, use half of that measurement. Cut out the fabric accordingly.

Step 2: Hem the Edges

Fold and sew double hems along the edges of the fabric to prevent fraying.

Step 3: Wear or Style

Your bandana or headscarf is now ready to be worn as a headband, necktie, or any other style you prefer.

Project 8: Pencil or Makeup Bag

This project involves creating a handy pencil case or makeup bag.

Materials you’ll need

Step 1: Cut Fabric

Cut two pieces of fabric for the exterior and two pieces for the lining. The dimensions will depend on your preference and the size of your zipper. Add seam allowance.

Step 2: Attach the Zipper

Place one exterior fabric piece right-side up. Lay the zipper on top with the pull facing down and align the zipper’s top edge with the fabric’s top edge. Place one lining piece right-side down on top of the zipper. Pin everything in place and sew along the top.

Repeat this process for the other side of the zipper with the remaining exterior and lining fabric pieces.

Step 3: Stitch the Sides

Fold the exterior pieces together with right sides facing each other and the lining pieces together with right sides facing each other. Sew along the sides of each set, leaving a small opening at the bottom of the lining.

Step 4: Box the Corners (optional)

If you want to give your bag more depth, box the corners by pinching each corner and sewing across it. Trim the excess fabric.

Step 5: Finish the Bag

Turn the bag right-side out through the opening in the lining. Stitch the opening in the lining closed. Push the lining into the exterior, and your pencil case or makeup bag is complete.

These eight fabric scrap projects offer a wide range of creative possibilities. Whether you’re making coasters, an eye mask, bandanas, or a pencil/makeup bag, you can repurpose your fabric scraps into functional and stylish items.

Conclusion

And there you have it—a cute and stylish scrunchie made from fabric scraps. It’s a quick and easy project that adds a fun accessory to your outfits.

These fabric scrap projects offer a range of creative possibilities, from functional items like pillowcases and tote bags to decorative pieces like wall banners and scrunchies. Don’t let those fabric remnants go to waste—get creative and start sewing!

Tersia Jager

I Like to write and read on fashion, may be that’s why “Fashion says “me too” style says “only me”